Costa Rica is by far one of the world’s success stories in the fast-growing industry of Eco-Tourism. Tourism in general is the #1 service industry worldwide and eco-tourism is its fastest growing sector as travellers begin to look for more meaningful experiences than just lying on the beach or poolside.

In its best form, eco-tourism provides the means for local populations to gain an economic livelihood from conserving and promoting its natural resources. Exporting natural resources from environmentally damaging industries such as logging or mining is no longer the most viable option for emerging economies to experience growth. Tourism now far out earns exports such as coffee and bananas. The tourist also benefits by enjoying an incredible array of biodiversity that might otherwise disappear as well as being educated about other cultures and conservation efforts. Many modern day travellers like the concept of experiencing life in exotic locations and at the same time being socially responsible and helping the local economy.

Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia in the United States, but 25% of its territory is preserved in 25 national parks or nature reserves. It is home to 4% of the world’s bio-diversity which draws visitors worldwide receiving 2.9 million visitors in 2016 up from 1 million in 2000. Eco-tourism has fueled this incredible growth as travellers flock to enjoy the incredible bio-diversity that Costa Rica offers with its pristine beaches, cloud forests, rainforests, majestic volcanos and wide range of flora and fauna.

As visitors continue to choose Costa Rica as its eco-friendly destination the industry has evolved and continues to innovate in creating more small scale hotels with energy saving practices. There are a wide range of experiences awaiting the visitor who wants to have a “low carbon footprint,” be immersed in a jungle experience, but with the comforts of a luxurious vacation. The ICT or Costa Rican Institute of Tourism awards leaves in recognition of a business’ efforts to both conserve natural resources and work with the local community to foster understanding, cultural exchange and economic benefits for the community. For the eco-friendliest companies, look for five leaves.

Try one of these eco-adventure destinations on your next visit to Costa Rica:

Corcovado National Park:

Corcovado is noteworthy for its place in the history of conservation efforts, as the 424 square kilometers of protected rainforest in the National Park would otherwise be a rich source of gold and timber. Both these industries profited from the area until October 24, 1975, when it was decreed a reserve by then President, Daniel Odubar. By 1980, all types of mining were banned and the park remains a testament to the efforts of conservationists that eco-tourism is a viable long-term economic alternative to the exploitation of natural resources.

It is one the most remote parks in Costa Rica with no road access around the perimeter of the park. The number of animal and plant species living here is staggering. There are over 140 mammal species, 400 species of birds, 40 species of freshwater fish, 71 species of reptiles, 46 species of amphibians, and 6,000 species of insects. This is the only park in Costa Rica where you can still see all four native species of monkeys. The Baird’s Tapir, the largest land mammal in Central America as well as 5 species of cats; jaguars, pumas, ocelots, jaguarundis, and margays, call this home. In addition to the large lagoon in the center the park, there are five rivers that flow within its borders.

For your stay here check out Lapa Rios Eco-Lodge, voted by National Geographic Magazine as one of the “Unique Lodges of the World” or other eco-friendly accommodation options in the region. These are examples of the small-scale resorts for which Costa Rica is known, with some set within large private reserves for the ultimate jungle experience. Don’t think this means skimping on all the luxuries, although you may have to replace your air–conditioning with the cool ocean breezes, and the chlorinated pool for a salt water alternative!

Pacuare River

Explore the Pacuare river, a top-rated rafting experience and stay in an eco-resort, like Pacuare Lodge. Pacuare is a 25,000 acre protected area inhabited by jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths and an enormous biodiversity of fauna and flora that thrive on the forested river shores in the tropical heat and humidity. The main attraction here is of course the Pacuare River and tours are 3 ½ hours on class III/IV rapids. Flow through canyons, past waterfalls and virgin rainforest and catch a glimpse of various birds and other wildlife during the quiet stretches. Enjoy eco-friendly activities that are exhilarating and allow the participant to interact with nature without disturbing it!

You don’t have to go far outside of San Jose to enjoy an eco-tourism experience. Hotels and lodges, like El Silencio Lodge, provide comfortable accommodation with minimal impact on the environment. Fine dining is offered with sustainable touches like selecting fruits and vegetables from the property. Want to pay forward? Join in planting trees during your stay.

Wherever you choose to stay, you can employ these handy tips to make your stay eco-friendlier:

turning off lights, laptops, fans, and televisions when they are not in use.

No need to wash sheets and towels every day. Let hotel staff know you will inform them when you need your linens changed.

When you got out to eat try to dine in local “sodas” which use local produce, rather than the footprint generated by importing food products from other parts of the world.

The less luggage you bring the less fuels are needed to transport it.

Take a refillable water bottle to avoid buying lots of plastic bottles in the store.

Recycle where you can.There is not a national recycling program in place, but many communities run their own.